What To Do Before, During, and After a Flood

Even if you feel you live in a community with a low risk of flooding, remember that anywhere it rains, it can flood. Just because you haven't experienced a flood in the past, doesn't mean you won't in the future. Flood risk isn't just based on history; it's also based on a number of factors including rainfall , topography, flood-control measures, river-flow and tidal-surge data, and changes due to new construction and development.

Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.

Play it safe. Additional flooding or flash floods can occur. Listen for local warnings and information. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.

Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way.

If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded.

Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it's also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it.

Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.

Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.

Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.

Staying Healthy

A flood can cause physical hazards and emotional stress. You need to loolk after yourself and your family as you focus on cleanup and repair.

Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage.

Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.

Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mudleft from floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals.

Rest often and eat well.

Keep a manageable schedule. Make a list and do jobs one at a time.

Discuss your concerns with others and seek help. Contact Red Cross for information on emotional support available in your area.

Cleaning Up and Repairing Your Home

Turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box, even if the power is off in your community. That way, you can decide when your home is dry enough to turn it back on.

Get a copy of the bookRepairing Your Flooded Home(737KB PDF) which is available free from the American Red Cross or your state or local emergency manager. It will tell you:

How to enter your home safely.

How to protect your home and belongings from further damage.

How to record damage to support insurance claims and requests for assistance.

How to check for gas or water leaks and how to have service restored.

How to clean up appliances, furniture, floors and other belongs.

The Red Cross can provide you with a cleanup kit: mop, broom, bucket, and cleaning supplies.

Contact your insurance agent to discuss claims.

Listen to your radio for information on assistance that may be provided by the state or federal government or other organizations.

If you hire cleanup or repair contractors, check references and be sure they are qualified to do the job. Be wary of people who drive through neighborhoods offering help in cleaning up or repairing your home.